Cris Coniglio, PMP, CMP, DES
Cris Coniglio, PMP, CMP, DES, is a veteran creative producer and project manager with a 30-year career spanning stage production, animation, live events, and corporate project management. She began her career as a stage technician at Walt Disney World, progressed into animation and themed entertainment, and eventually transitioned into large-scale event production. Cris currently serves as a Creative Producer at Freeman, overseeing pre-production design, creative teams, and multimillion-dollar client projects, including conventions, trade shows, and both live and virtual events.
Throughout her career, Cris has managed and produced high-profile events such as the NATO Summit, the Commander-in-Chief Ball, the World Expo in Korea, and ceremonies for the Invictus Games, which she found especially meaningful for the opportunity to connect with veterans. She has also led projects for U.S. presidential inaugurations, Association of the United States Army, American Heart Association, and international corporate portfolios. Cris’s experience extends to consulting and freelance work with Blue Liger Consulting and Blue Sky, where she managed logistics, digital programs, and virtual conferences for diverse clients including government agencies, medical associations, and corporate organizations.
Cris holds an Associate of Science in Business Administration from Valencia College and a Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Florida Atlantic University. She is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), and Digital Event Strategist (DES). Beyond her professional achievements, Cris is a dedicated powerlifter, earning nearly 30 gold medals over three years and competing in multiple competitions annually.
• Generative AI Overview for Project Managers - 2024
• Valencia College - AS
• Society of Government Meeting Planners
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to Gene Columbus, who started a leadership development program at Disney. Their guidance and example inspired my approach to mentoring younger women in my current role, and I strive to pay that forward by fostering growth and confidence in those I work with.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face in this industry is time management. Balancing multiple large-scale projects, tight deadlines, and client expectations requires constant focus, organization, and prioritization to ensure every event meets the highest standards.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I place immense value on honesty, ethics, and caring in both my personal and professional life. These principles guide my interactions, decision-making, and the relationships I build with colleagues, clients, and collaborators, shaping the way I approach every project.
Locations
Freeman Company
Orlando, FL 32819